ACE reacts to the recently published Scottish Government’s Draft Budget for 2023/24.  

On 15 December, the Scottish Government published its Draft Budget, which sets out revenue and capital spending plan for 2023/2024. Deputy First Minister John Swinney MSP commented: “The Budget for 2023-2024 takes place in the most turbulent economic and financial context most people can remember.” 

Having recovered from a 25% fall during the height of the pandemic at the beginning of 2022, Scotland’s economy is now facing another downturn.  

Members of ACE will be pleased to note that despite this, the Government remains focused on reaching Net Zero by 2035 and transforming the economy to deliver a just transition. This is evident in several announcements within the Budget including the publication of a new Climate Change Plan, and an additional £244 million to the Scottish National Investment Bank to support businesses focusing on the missions of Net Zero, place and innovation.  

Similarly, the Government announced £197 million in active and sustainable travel, £1.4 billion to maintain, improve and decarbonise Scotland’s rail network, and increased investment to deliver the Heat in Buildings Strategy which includes the development of low-carbon infrastructure projects. 

A briefing on the announcements and takeaways from the Scottish Draft Budget has been produced for anyone working for an ACE member. Simply register or login with your work email to access it. 

Responding to the draft budget, Olivia Smalley, ACE policy lead in Scotland, said: “It is encouraging to see that despite the uncertain macro-economic circumstances, the Scottish Government remain committed to a just transition to net zero through spending on low carbon infrastructure, encouraging active travel, and many other measures.” 

“Going into 2023, we’re looking forward to seeing more detail surrounding the announcements, which will help our members plan for the future and work efficiently as we collectively help turn political ambition in Scotland into deliverable plans and programmes.” 

Find out more about ACE in Scotland. Meeting dates for 2023 have been published, please get in touch today  if you and your company would like to get involved. 

Download your exclusive member briefing below.